גַּם זֶה יַעֲבֹר
Gam Zeh Ya'avor
“This too shall pass”
Gam Zeh Ya'avor (גַּם זֶה יַעֲבֹר) is a Hebrew phrase meaning “this too shall pass,” pronounced “gam ZEH ya-a-VOR.” The literal translation is “also this will pass.” A famous proverb about the impermanence of all things — both good times and bad. Attributed to King Solomon in Jewish folklore.
| Hebrew | גַּם זֶה יַעֲבֹר |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Gam Zeh Ya'avor |
| English Meaning | This too shall pass |
| Literal Translation | Also this will pass |
| Pronunciation | gam ZEH ya-a-VOR |
| Category | Wisdom & Proverbs |
| Origin | Jewish folklore, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. The story appears in various forms across medieval Jewish, Sufi, and Persian literature. Abraham Lincoln popularized it in English through an 1859 speech. The phrase is not found in the Bible itself, but its wisdom echoes Ecclesiastes. |
According to Jewish folklore, King Solomon once asked his advisors for a ring that could make a happy man sad and a sad man happy. They returned with a simple gold ring inscribed with three Hebrew words: Gam Zeh Ya'avor — 'This too shall pass.' The genius of these words lies in their perfect symmetry: in times of suffering, they offer hope (this pain is temporary); in times of joy, they offer humility (this pleasure is also temporary). It's the most democratic of proverbs — equally applicable to kings and commoners, the ecstatic and the despairing. Three Hebrew words that contain an entire philosophy of impermanence, resilience, and the cyclical nature of human experience.
Where Does “Gam Zeh Ya'avor” Come From?
Jewish folklore, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. The story appears in various forms across medieval Jewish, Sufi, and Persian literature. Abraham Lincoln popularized it in English through an 1859 speech. The phrase is not found in the Bible itself, but its wisdom echoes Ecclesiastes.
When and How to Say “Gam Zeh Ya'avor”
Used as comfort during difficult times and as a reminder of humility during prosperity. Extremely popular as a tattoo (in both Hebrew and English), on jewelry, wall art, and social media. Often invoked during personal trials, national crises, and philosophical reflections on impermanence.
Cultural Context of Gam Zeh Ya'avor
Gam Zeh Ya'avor has become one of the most popular Hebrew phrases for tattoos worldwide — its brevity and power make it perfect for body art. In Israel, it's a common saying during periods of national difficulty, military operations, or personal hardship. It captures the Israeli spirit of resilience and pragmatism.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you say “This too shall pass” in Hebrew?
“This too shall pass” in Hebrew is Gam Zeh Ya'avor (גַּם זֶה יַעֲבֹר), pronounced “gam ZEH ya-a-VOR.” The literal translation is “Also this will pass.” A famous proverb about the impermanence of all things — both good times and bad. Attributed to King Solomon in Jewish folklore.
How do you pronounce Gam Zeh Ya'avor?
Gam Zeh Ya'avor is pronounced “gam ZEH ya-a-VOR.” The literal meaning is “Also this will pass.”
Is 'Gam Zeh Ya'avor' in the Bible?
No — the phrase itself doesn't appear in the Bible, though its wisdom echoes Ecclesiastes ('There is a time for everything... a time to weep and a time to laugh'). The saying is attributed to King Solomon in Jewish and Sufi folklore, where it's inscribed on a ring that keeps the king emotionally balanced.
What is the story of Solomon's ring?
According to legend, King Solomon asked his wisest advisor (some say Benaiah ben Yehoyada) to find a ring that could make a happy man sad and a sad man happy. After much searching, the advisor had a jeweler engrave a ring with 'Gam Zeh Ya'avor.' When Solomon read it, he smiled — then wept, understanding the impermanence of his own glory.
Why is Gam Zeh Ya'avor popular as a tattoo?
Its brevity (three words), visual beauty in Hebrew script, and profound universal meaning make it ideal for body art. People often get it during or after difficult life periods as a reminder of resilience, or during good times as a reminder to stay grounded. The Hebrew letters have an aesthetic appeal that adds to the meaning.
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Im Lo Achshav Eimatai
If not now, when?
Wisdom & Proverbsיְהוָה רֹעִיAdonai Ro'i
The Lord is my shepherd
Blessings & Spiritualיְהוָה רֹעִי לֹא אֶחְסָרAdonai ro'i lo echsar
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want
Bible VersesלְחַיִּיםL'Chaim
To life! / Cheers!
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